Fort de Malonne, Military fortress in Malonne, Belgium
Fort de Malonne is a military fortress near Namur built with thick concrete walls, defensive turrets, and a wide surrounding ditch. The structure demonstrates the engineering approach of the late 19th century with its robust defensive design.
The fortress was completed in 1888 and formed part of a defensive system around Namur designed by military engineer General Henri Alexis Brialmont. It was built during a period when Belgium sought to protect its borders through modern fortifications.
The fort represents Belgian military engineering advancement through its pioneering use of unreinforced concrete in late 19th-century fortification construction.
The fort has been closed to the public since 1991 and now functions as a protected nature reserve. The site serves as a habitat for bat populations, so viewing from outside is possible even though interior access is restricted.
During World War II, Captain-Commandant Demaret led the defense of the fortress against German forces and negotiated an honorable resistance. The site's defense history remains connected to Belgian resistance efforts during the occupation.
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